Performing Arts Studiesat Millikin University
Graduates earn $22,815/yr in their first year — about 8.0% below the national Performing Arts Studies average. Base-case 10-year earnings $409K; scenarios range from $395K to $399K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Millikin University
This "Other" Visual and Performing Arts degree from Millikin represents a highly specialized or interdisciplinary path within a field already known for its unique career trajectories. The program's placement in Decatur, IL, a smaller regional market, means local opportunities for these specialized roles may be more limited than in major cultural centers, potentially influencing starting salaries compared to national averages for this niche. Your career path will likely demand significant entrepreneurial spirit, as many graduates create their own opportunities in freelance, non-profit, or community arts rather than following established corporate pipelines. Given the high AI risk, focusing on uniquely human creative elements, critical thinking, and collaborative skills will be paramount. You'll need to actively build a robust portfolio and professional network, as the program's reputation and your individual drive will be key to accessing opportunities beyond the immediate region.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Millikin University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Performing Arts Studies
How Millikin University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Millikin University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Millikin University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Performing Arts Studies offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Performing Arts Studies trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University
What does a 15/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
At 15/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Performing Arts Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Performing Arts Studies degree from Millikin University?
At $26,000 in median debt, graduates carry 14 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
The 44% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
What do students actually pay for Performing Arts Studies at Millikin University?
The 67% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $107,568. At a net cost of $35,348, the earnings multiple improves substantially.